Nursing Home Abuse

Watch for unexplained bruises or fractures, sudden mood swings, withdrawal, poor hygiene, untreated bedsores, weight loss, dehydration, or a resident who seems afraid to speak freely. Any of these red flags warrants immediate action to protect your loved one. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take immediate action and consult with an experienced attorney to protect your loved one’s well-being.

If you suspect your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, act quickly. First, ensure their immediate safety—this may involve moving them to another facility. Document any signs of abuse, such as injuries or changes in behavior, or unsanitary conditions, and report your concerns to the facility’s management and Illinois state regulators. Next, contact a seasoned nursing home abuse lawyer Chicago families trust to investigate and secure emergency safeguards.

In a nursing home abuse case, several parties can be held liable, including the facility itself, individual staff members, and in some cases, third-party contractors. Liability may depend on the nature of the abuse and the parties involved in the care and management of the resident. An experienced attorney can help identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable for the harm caused.

Compensation in a nursing home abuse claim can cover medical expenses related to the abuse, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and costs for relocating to a safer facility. In cases of severe abuse or neglect, additional compensation may be awarded for punitive damages to hold the facility accountable for its actions. In severe cases, Illinois courts may also award punitive damages to deter future misconduct and fund ongoing care.Our goal is to secure the full compensation needed to ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being.

Illinois generally gives you two years from the date you discovered—or reasonably should have discovered—the abuse. Acting sooner preserves evidence and strengthens your claim.

Yes. Emotional or psychological abuse—verbal threats, humiliation, isolation—can support a lawsuit if it causes measurable harm such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress.

Key proof includes medical records, photos of injuries or unsanitary conditions, staff logs, witness statements and expert opinions on proper standards of care.

Residents are covered by the federal Nursing Home Reform Act (OBRA ’87) and the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act, which guarantee safe conditions, proper staffing and the right to sue for violations.

Settlements vary widely—from tens of thousands to several million dollars—depending on injury severity, ongoing medical needs and whether punitive damages are awarded.